Google's new $1,899 folding phone is tougher and lighter, but not a bargain

Google's new Pixel 11 Pro Fold is a sturdy folding phone that costs $1,899. TechCrunch's review found it is a modest update to last year's model, and most likely to appeal to people who already love Pixel phones. Apple's new iPhone Duo and Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8 are the main reasons it is not an easy pick for a first foldable.

What changed

Google says the phone is three times more durable than last year's version. It uses a new glass-ceramic cover and a glass-fiber composite back to absorb impact. The reviewer dropped it a few times, from a table and from a pocket, and saw no dent or scratch. It is also 19 grams lighter, though that is mostly noticeable if you hold last year's model beside it.

• Thinner: 5mm open and 10.1mm folded, down from 5.2mm and 10.8mm
• Brighter screen: 3,600 nits at peak, up from 3,000
• Better wireless charging and a new olive color
• Main camera sensor is still 48 megapixels but lets in more light

What still falls short

The crease in the screen is still easy to see, and it shows more in bright light. Oppo and Honor have made theirs much less visible. The strong hinge also means you cannot open the phone with one hand. Google did this on purpose.

Cameras remain a weak spot. The ultrawide and telephoto cameras are close to last year's, and the review says they are not as good as those on the Pixel 11 Pro XL. The review also calls the "Pro" name a disservice. Zoom does reach 30x now, up from 20x.

Apps and software

Reading and watching video on the big screen is still fun. You can run two apps side by side. Gmail works well that way, with your inbox on one side and an email on the other. Slack still has no split view, which the review calls frustrating after many rounds of Android foldables. Apple's developers are updating apps quickly for the iPhone Duo, which could make Android feel behind.

Price and who it suits

At $1,899, the Pixel 11 Pro Fold is about $100 less than the iPhone Duo and the same price as the Galaxy Z Fold 8. Both of those are wide-format phones. In the U.S., the taller Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra starts at $2,099. Xiaomi and Honor are also set to release foldables in Europe.

The review's verdict is that this phone fits someone who likes Pixels and wants a foldable. Anyone else should compare it with the Apple and Samsung options first.